Steelers’ Russell Wilson Can’t Stop Talking About A Breakout Season For “Big” Darnell Washington

The Pittsburgh Steelers enjoyed an eventful offseason with several exciting new additions. Among them is Russell Wilson, the nine-time Pro Bowler and former Super Bowl champion. The Steelers signed Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum after the 2023 season. Following two challenging years with the Denver Broncos, Wilson is now looking to revitalize his NFL career in Pittsburgh.

Wilson has embraced Pittsburgh with enthusiasm, quickly becoming a welcoming presence in Steel City. However, Steelers fans will be more focused on his performance on the field than his off-field charm if he struggles to lead the team to victories in the 2024 season.

One of the standout aspects of Wilson's arrival is his positive mindset. Despite some concerns about the Steelers' wide receiver corps this offseason, Wilson is full of praise for his teammates. He has lauded Calvin Austin III as exceptional, described George Pickens as possibly one of the best wide receiver he's ever played with, and expressed high regard for all his offensive weapons.

After the conclusion of training camp on Wednesday, Wilson addressed the media and couldn't contain his excitement about tight end Darnell Washington. He hinted at plans to increase Washington's targets in the upcoming season, underscoring his belief in the young tight end’s potential.

"Yeah, Big Darnell, he’s like 6’8” and about 305 running fast, big body. Just you know, you give him a chance all the time down there and he makes great plays. He ran a great route on that one, huge play and he’s just been showing up all camp."

In the 2023 season, Washington received just 10 targets, catching seven passes for 61 yards but failing to score a touchdown. With new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith joining the team for Washington's second season, expectations are higher. Smith is known for integrating tight ends effectively into his offense, so Washington is likely to see increased opportunities.

Wilson is thrilled about the chance to throw to Washington and be his teammate. While Washington isn't quite 305 pounds, his size and strength make him a standout athlete at the tight end position. Wilson has been particularly impressed by Washington’s unique abilities, praising him for his exceptional athleticism.

"It really feels like his fourth year, but it’s really only his second and it’s been impressive just how knowledgeable he is and how competitive he is. Obviously, there’s only so many human beings in the world that are that big and can run that well and catch that good, too. He’s very skillful, so it’s good to have him on our team."

As a rookie, Washington didn’t have many opportunities to make an impact in the passing game. However, that is likely to change in the 2024 season with a new offensive system and a new quarterback in place. Drafted by the Steelers in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Washington was initially brought in to enhance the blocking game and be a red zone threat.

At Georgia, Washington didn’t accumulate standout stats, but his presence was crucial in opening up the offense. The Steelers hope he can bring that same influence to Pittsburgh. While they’re not overly concerned with his current target count, his size and athleticism present a significant threat if he evolves into a reliable pass-catching tight end. Washington could become nearly impossible to defend against as he develops his receiving skills.

Steelers' Russell Wilson Hints That Darnell Washington Will Get More Targets In 2024

Though not yet the most polished pass catcher, Washington’s speed and potential are promising. Wilson has hinted several times this offseason about plans to increase Washington's targets in 2024. 

While many Steelers fans are focused on Pat Freiermuth benefiting from the new offensive system, Washington is also a player to watch closely. Both Freiermuth and Washington are expected to see bigger roles in the upcoming season.

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